Gratitude and Related Variables Among Older Adults for the Six Wave of COVID-19: The Relevance of Family Functioning and Purpose in Life

Abstract

Background/Objective: Different studies have shown how gratitude increases in times of uncertainty and adversity, such as the COVID-19 pandemic. But most research on gratitude has focused on young people and studies analyzing its predictors are scarce. This study examined the role that sociodemographic variables, COVID-19 characteristics, family functioning, emotional distress (anxiety and depression) and purpose in life had upon gratitude. Method: 361 people aged 60 years and over from different parts of Spain took part in the study. We used hierarchical regression analysis to examine data. Results: The study demonstrated that family functioning, and purpose of life predicted gratitude. These results have implications for the perception of aging, from a traditional negative approach to a strengths-based approach. Conclusion: Strengthening family bonds and increasing meaning in life to promote gratitude in times of crisis interventions is needed.